The Buttery, in partnership with its Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Committee, is proud to celebrate NAIDOC Week with a free community screening of the acclaimed First Nations animated feature film Imagine, inviting the Northern Rivers community to come together to reflect, learn and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, stories and achievements.
Taking place on Thursday, 9 July 2026, at Lismore Star Court Theatre, the screening forms part of this year’s NAIDOC Week celebrations, marking its 50th anniversary, ’50 Years of Deadly’ to honour the history, culture, resilience and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
CEO at The Buttery, Leone Crayden, says, ‘NAIDOC Week is one of the most important celebrations in Australia’s calendar. Events held around the country in celebration, play a vital role in helping communities feel seen, valued, and celebrated, while also creating opportunities to connect people with supportive services, including the free programs offered by The Buttery.
‘As we celebrate 50 years of NAIDOC and reflect on this year’s theme, 50 Years of Deadly, we are reminded of the importance of listening to First Nations voices and supporting future generations to lead with strength, pride and cultural knowledge.’
Groundbreaking animation
Imagine is a groundbreaking First Nations-led animated film co-directed by Jack Manning Bancroft, founder of the Australian Indigenous Mentoring Experience (AIME), and acclaimed Indigenous scholar, author and thinker Professor Tyson Yunkaporta.
The film follows 15-year-old Kim and their alien canine companion, Jeff, on an immersive journey through a imaginary world, exploring identity, connection, culture and the question of what kind of ancestors we want to be.
It’s been recognised for its innovative blend of Indigenous storytelling, animation and community-led creation, offering audiences an opportunity to engage with First Nations perspectives in a powerful and accessible way.
‘Stories have the power to bring people together, open hearts and create understanding. By sharing the wonderful story that is IMAGINE, we hope to provide a space for our community to connect, listen and learn through the power of storytelling,’ said Leone Crayden.
‘We hope to spark meaningful conversations, deepen our understanding of the cultural strengths and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and encourage reflection on the challenges that many First Nations communities continue to face every day.’
Ms Crayden says reconciliation begins with listening, learning and walking alongside one another, with opportunities like these helping people take those important steps together.
Event details
The free screening of Imagine is open to all members of the community and reflects The Buttery’s commitment to creating opportunities for connection, learning and celebration during NAIDOC Week.
It’s happening on Thursday 9 July, from 5.30pm–8:30pm, at the Star Court Theatre, 126 Molesworth Street, Lismore.
Free tickets can be booked via Humantix, here.
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
